Jesus Meets Caesar

"Kind sir," the old man said, "I shall reward you with my blessings if you would direct me towards the ... Kingdom of God..."

"What did you say?" Jesus turned around and pulled his sword out. Peter followed suit, breathing heavily, looking at Jesus intermittently as if to wonder how long this old geezer should remain alive.

"Put away your sword," Caesar said to Peter, "I come in peace."

Jesus nodded. Peter put his sword away. There was a glimmer in the old man's eyes. "I trust that you have never met one like me...?" he said quietly. Jesus said nothing. Peter began to fidget with his sword. "Master, we should kill him. I do not like the looks of this." Jesus seemed unsure. "Peter, go get the others. Quickly!" Peter departed.

Caesar smiled at Jesus. "And now, who will help you? Now, it is just two of us, who will release you from history? For in my hand is the power to confine you to nothingness, to bring you to disrepute, give you the fate of a common thief."

"You wouldn't do it otherwise honor would mean nothing amongst men..."

"You speak of honor," Caesar said, intrigued, "and yet you move with harlots?"

"Not all have had your good fortune, Your Majesty..."

Caesar paused. "Your good manners speak well of you, son. Where does your father hail from?"

"Judea, sir."

"It is there I am going. Do you wish a ride with my entourage?"

"If it pleases the gods of Rome."

"She is a harlot too. Follow me."

"My men..."

"Will be taken care of..."

Caesar and Jesus depart as Peter returns with one of the others.